Meiosis-specific kinetochore protein (Meikin)

Key regulator of kinetochore function during meiosis I: required both for mono-orientation of kinetochores on sister chromosomes and protection of centromeric cohesin from separase- mediated cleavage. Acts by facilitating kinetochore mono- orientation through meiosis I, when kinetochores on sister chromosomes face the same direction and are thus captured and pulled by spindle fibers in the same pole.

Also required to prevent cleavage of cohesin at centromeres during meiosis I, possibly by acting as a regulator of this shugoshin-dependent protection pathway. Acts in collaboration with PLK1: required for PLK1 enrichment to kinetochores.